ARSENAL’S Aaron Ramsey last night spoke for the first time about suffering a broken leg in a challenge with Ryan Shawcross last weekend – but made no mention of the Stoke defender.

Wales midfielder Ramsey is out for the rest of the season after suffering a fractured tibia and fibula in the incident at the Britannia Stadium.

The 19-year-old thanked Stoke’s Glenn Whelan for his assistance on the pitch, but Shawcross – who left the pitch in tears after being sent off and has sent messages of support to Ramsey in hospital – was not mentioned.

‘‘I remember what happened clearly and after the tackle went in I saw that my leg was broken and hanging at an angle,’’ Ramsey said.

‘‘I have seen images of the aftermath of the collision again but I don’t want to dwell too much on the challenge as I can’t change what has happened.

‘‘It is difficult for me to take everything in at the moment. I thought I had been progressing well this season, so of course this is a real setback.

‘‘It is very hard to take but I am young and have time on my side.

“I had an operation last weekend and, while it will take time for my leg to heal, I am determined and focused on overcoming this injury and hope to be back fitter and stronger.

‘‘I have been overwhelmed by the terrific support I have received from so many people, including fans from many different clubs.

‘‘In particular, I would like to thank the medical team here at Arsenal for their efforts, as well as the staff at both hospitals.

‘‘Glenn Whelan was especially kind and I really appreciated his immediate assistance on the pitch as well as the medical support from Stoke City.”